"There's something almost adolescent about Whitman's paean to everything that was and remains good about America"

In this quote, Anita Diament is explaining Walt Whitman's writing style as "adolescent" in his praise for America. She recommends that Whitman's words are filled with a sense of youthful enthusiasm and idealism, similar to that of a teen. This could be seen as both a favorable and unfavorable aspect of his writing. On one hand, it reveals his deep love and adoration for his country, but on the other hand, it may likewise be seen as ignorant or simple. Diament likewise notes that Whitman's appreciation is not just for the present, but for whatever that has constantly been and continues to be good about America. This further highlights his steady belief in the success of his country.